Auxvasse Missouri
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Auxvasse, Missouri.
1. Gateway Arch
ARCHITECTURAL WONDER | ST LOUIS MO
Designed by Eero Saarinen, the Gateway Arch is an extraordinary feat of engineering and design that stands as a beacon of progress. Visitors can ride its tram for unparalleled views, watch documentaries about its construction, or explore exhibits highlighting its historical significance. This stainless steel structure embodies both beauty and purpose.
2. Missouri Botanical Garden
HORTICULTURAL HAVEN | ST LOUIS MO
The Missouri Botanical Garden offers a serene escape with its meticulously designed gardens, such as the Victorian District and Ottoman Garden. Its Climatron conservatory houses a vibrant tropical rainforest, while the Temperate House showcases Mediterranean flora. Seasonal events and educational tours make it a year-round destination for nature enthusiasts.
3. Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
ARTISTIC TREASURES | KANSAS CITY MO
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art offers an encyclopedic collection spanning 5,000 years of global art history. Visitors can explore diverse galleries, including renowned Asian and European art, and enjoy outdoor sculptures in the 22-acre Donald J. Hall Sculpture Park. With free admission and amenities like an Italian courtyard-inspired restaurant, it is a cultural gem for art lovers.
4. Meramec Caverns
FAMILY DESTINATION | STANTON MO
Perfect for all ages, Meramec Caverns offers guided tours through its stunning limestone chambers alongside fun activities like gold panning and climbing walls. Historical legends of Jesse James enrich the experience with exciting stories of the past. Relaxation awaits at the campground or riverside motel.
5. Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park
BIODIVERSITY HAVEN | VAN BUREN MO
Ozark National Scenic Riverways Park supports a wide variety of aquatic, terrestrial, and subterranean habitats within its 80,000 acres of protected land. Its rivers are designated Outstanding National Resource Waters due to their ecological importance. Wildlife diversity is further enriched by elk reintroduction efforts within the park's boundaries.
6. Old Chain of Rocks Bridge
ICONIC BEND BRIDGE | ST LOUIS MO
Known for its distinctive 30-degree turn, the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge is a historic marvel crossing the Mississippi River. Originally built in 1929 as a toll bridge, it now welcomes walkers and cyclists as part of the Route 66 experience. Its towering structure provides breathtaking views of the river and surrounding landscapes.
7. Missouri Great River Road
MISSISSIPPI RIVERWAY | EASTERN MISSOURI
Stretching through Missouri, the Great River Road highlights the state's rich heritage and scenic vistas along the mighty Mississippi River. Key stops include the iconic Gateway Arch in St. Louis and the Trail of Tears State Park near Jackson. Whether kayaking in Crystal City Underground or visiting Mark Twain's boyhood home, travelers will find adventure and history at every turn.
8. Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge
BIRDING PARADISE | MOUND CITY MO
Known as one of the Midwest's premier birding destinations, Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge hosts impressive gatherings of snow geese numbering over one million during peak migrations each year. Early morning visits to pools like Pelican Pool and Eagle Pool at Loess Bluffs provide optimal birdwatching opportunities for enthusiasts seeking unforgettable moments in nature. Seasonal surveys track bird populations across this vibrant refuge for visitors to follow closely during their trips to Loess Bluffs.
9. Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum
POLITICAL HERITAGE | INDEPENDENCE MO
The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum reveals the personal and professional life of President Truman through engaging exhibits and authentic memorabilia. Highlights include his working office and burial site alongside his family members in the courtyard garden area. This Independence landmark embodies American resilience and leadership.
10. TITANIC Museum Attraction
FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUN | BRANSON MO
TITANIC Museum Attraction provides an educational yet entertaining experience for families, including interactive areas for kids such as steering the ship or shoveling coal in the boiler room. Guests receive boarding passes tied to real passengers' stories, adding a personal touch to their visit. The museum combines learning with fun through its unique exhibits and activities.
11. Silver Dollar City
SEASONAL FESTIVALS | BRANSON MO
From springtime expos to dazzling Christmas celebrations, seasonal festivals make every visit to Silver Dollar City special. Guests at Silver Dollar City can enjoy themed entertainment, artisan crafts, and delicious festival foods throughout the year. The park's thrilling rides and historic charm complete the unforgettable experience at Silver Dollar City.
12. City Museum
FUN FOR ALL | ST LOUIS MO
With its mix of artistic installations and playful attractions like spiral chutes and climbing towers, City Museum delights visitors young and old alike. The museum's rooftop offers additional thrills with unique sculptures and panoramic views of St. Louis. City Museum is an iconic destination that fosters joy through discovery and playfulness.
13. Mark Twain National Forest
OUTDOOR PARADISE | SOUTHERN MO
Encompassing diverse ecosystems from oak hardwoods to bluestem prairies, Mark Twain National Forest offers something for every nature enthusiast. Its secluded campgrounds provide peaceful retreats while its trails cater to hikers and bikers alike. Mark Twain National Forest is a must-visit destination for anyone craving outdoor adventure.
14. National WWI Museum and Memorial
HISTORIC LANDMARK | KANSAS CITY MO
The National WWI Museum and Memorial is a premier destination for exploring the history and impact of World War I. Visitors can view immersive exhibits, including life-size trench recreations, interactive displays, and thousands of artifacts. The Liberty Memorial Tower offers breathtaking views of Kansas City, making it a must-visit attraction.
15. Fantastic Caverns
ACCESSIBLE ADVENTURE | SPRINGFIELD MO
Fantastic Caverns offers an accessible way to experience the beauty of Missouri's underground with its Jeep-drawn tram tours. The hour-long journey highlights breathtaking formations like stalagmites and soda straws while sharing the cave's rich history. Its year-round availability makes it a must-see destination for all visitors to Springfield.
16. Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park
NATURAL WATERPARK | MIDDLE BROOK MO
Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park is a breathtaking natural retreat where visitors can swim, wade, and explore the unique rock formations carved by the East Fork Black River. The park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and campgrounds for those looking to enjoy the outdoors. Its crystal-clear pools and cascading waters make it a favorite destination for families and adventurers alike.
17. National Museum of Transportation
TRANSPORT HISTORY | KIRKWOOD MO
The National Museum of Transportation showcases an extensive collection of trains, cars, planes, and boats spanning 15 decades of American history. Highlights include rare locomotives like Union Pacific Big Boy #4006 and unique vehicles such as a Chrysler turbine car. Interactive exhibits and guided tours make it a family-friendly destination for learning about transportation evolution.
18. Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Home & Museum
LITERARY HERITAGE | MANSFIELD MO
The Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Home & Museum preserves Rocky Ridge Farm where Wilder wrote her famous Little House series. Visitors can tour the farmhouse, Rock House, and museum showcasing artifacts like Pa's fiddle and handwritten manuscripts. This site offers a glimpse into the pioneer life that inspired Wilder's beloved books.
19. Missouri State Capitol
ARCHITECTURAL BEAUTY | JEFFERSON CITY MO
The Missouri State Capitol impresses visitors with its grand architecture featuring stunning murals depicting state history alongside intricate stonework throughout its halls. Guided tours reveal fascinating details about legislative processes while showcasing art collections housed within its walls. Overlooking the Missouri River, this iconic building serves as both a political hub and cultural treasure for locals and tourists alike.
20. Jesse James Wax Museum
OUTLAW HISTORY | STANTON MO
Located near Meramec Caverns, the Jesse James Wax Museum invites visitors to explore the life of America's infamous outlaw through lifelike wax figures and captivating exhibits. The museum features artifacts belonging to Jesse James and his gang, alongside vintage firearms and historical displays that delve into his exploits during the Wild West era. This roadside attraction provides an engaging mix of folklore and history, perfect for families and history buffs alike.